North Carolina Community Engagement Alliance (NC CEAL) in partnership with CCPH and PRIME Collective launched the 2026 cohort of the Research Leadership Academy (RLA) on Friday, January 9, 2026 at the UNC Chapel Hill Friday Center.
The RLA invited 15 leaders from 13 North Carolina community-based organizations to participate in a 5-module leadership opportunity to explore research fundamentals to support the Scholars’ (RLA participants) health research projects. Scholars are invited to engage in sessions facilitated by content experts, practice labs to apply lessons, and peer learning opportunities to reflect back on what they have learned.
RLA Scholars and MPIs Anissa Vines and Al Richmond discussing a group activity
The RLA continues to engage leaders who are making a difference in their local communities, and collectively in North Carolina.
The first session at the Friday Center focused on the Principles of Partnership to discuss how to build and sustain equitable research partnerships with academics and others. The 2026 cohort will run from January 2026 through May 2026.
I am always inspired when I engage with leaders who understand the real needs of their communities and are committed to making a difference.
RLA Scholar, Stephanie Ashley, presenting her team’s group resume
Scholars and staff participating in an activity
RLA staff team, Kunga Denzongpa, Alexis Hill, and Charisse Iglesias
Some of RLA Scholars both in-person and virtually posing with MPIs Anissa Vines and Al Richmond, and facilitator Melvin Jackson.
